Vaseline Stain Removal Guide

Vaseline stain removal techniques are necessary if, for example, you have a new baby that gets diaper rash and that Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, gets all over your or their clothes, and not just where it is supposed to stay.

However you get the stain, though, whether it be on your sheets, couch or carpet, you are left with a greasy stain that can be difficult to remove without the right techniques.

Below are instructions for removal of Vaseline stains from fabric, upholstery and carpet.

Just remember, the key to removing vaseline stains from any item is to use a product that can cut the grease and oil.

Remove Vaseline Stains From Sheets Or Other Fabric

Step 1: Remove as much excess Vaseline from the fabric as possible, being careful not to spread the stain further.

Step 2: Gently rub a small amount of dishwashing soap into the fabric where the stain is.

Hint: You may find it helpful to rub the soap into the fabric with an old toothbrush (with soft bristles).

Step 3: Rinse the stained area well, flushing away both the Vaseline and the dishwashing liquid solution.

Hint: Depending on the amount of Vaseline present you may need to repeat Steps 2-3 a couple of times.

Step 4: Pretreat the stain with a laundry prewash stain remover.

Step 5: Launder in the hottest water allowed for the fabric to thoroughly remove the stain and the oil from the Vaseline.

Hint: Make sure the stain is gone after washing, but before you place in the dryer or you may set the stain. Repeat if necessary.

Vaseline Stain Removal From Upholstery

Step 1: Scrape up as much of the Vaseline as possible from the upholstery without spreading the stain further.

Step 2: Place an absorbent, such as cornstarch or baking soda, onto the stain, and let it soak in for approximately 15 minutes. This will help absorb the oily portion of the stain caused by the Vaseline.

Step 3: Scrape or vacuum up the absorbent, which has absorbed some of the Vaseline.

Hint: Depending on the amount of the Vaseline on the upholstery you may need to repeat this step a couple of times until no more Vaseline is absorbed by the baking soda or cornstarch.

Step 4: For the Vaseline still remaining take a clean white cloth and sponge the stain caused by it with a dry cleaning solvent.

Hint: First, be sure to test this solvent on an inconspicuous area of the upholstery to make sure it is safe.

Step 5: Next, blot at the stain until the solvent is absorbed.

Step 6: Repeat steps 4-5 until the stains are removed from the upholstery.

If that does not work you can mix a solution of two cups cool water and one tablespoon dishwashing liquid, and using this solution, sponge the stain with a clean white cloth, blotting at the solution until the liquid is absorbed, and the stain removed.

Once the stain from the Vaseline is gone use plain cold water and a new white cloth and sponge the area to remove the cleaning solution, and then blot dry.

Hint: Be sure to get the upholstery only as wet as necessary to remove the stain caused by the Vaseline.

You can get more information on how to clean upholstery here.

Removal Of Vaseline Stains From Carpet

The instructions for Vaseline stain removal from carpet is the same as for upholstery.

Get Even More Stain And Spot Removal Help Here

Are you a stain magnet like me? If so, check out the A to Z Stain Removal Guide which gives directions for how to remove over 100 types of stains from all kinds of surfaces.

Third photo by knittinging

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A-Z Guide: Instructions For Removing Over 100 Types Of Stains

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CAUTION: This website is provided for informational purposes only. It is provided as is, without warranties or guarantees. Some stains and messes just won't come out, and are permanent. Further, some cleaning methods can harm your item, so if what you want to clean or launder is sentimental or expensive call a professional. See disclaimer of liability for more information.